We believe in working together for a greater good, and as a small businesses in Los Angeles, supporting other small businesses is something that we are not only committed to but honored to do!
Showing support and solidarity for BIPOC peers, friends, family and colleagues can come in many forms, but one tangible way to express instant support is to shop, sip and dine at BIPOC-owned businesses here at home in Los Angeles.
As we commit to consciously making these decisions, we have compiled a list of some of our favorite LA-local spots to share with you that are not only beautiful businesses that are doing good for the community but are all BIPOC-owned!
RESTAURANTS
Right in our hometown, Chulita brings botanas y mezcales, also known as Mexican drinking food, to Venice Beach. Not only are the food and drinks completely up to par, but the ambiance is bright, airy, and welcoming to all from near and far. The owner, Shireen, is a lively addition to the dining area and greets all with open arms. Stop here for top-notch guacamole which goes perfectly well with their Prickly Pear Margarita! They’re currently open for patio seating and takeout.
Being the first Ethiopian restaurant in South Los Angeles, Chef Azla and her daughter Nesanet duo together to offer warm vibes and the yummiest vegan Ethiopian food! Chef Azla takes traditional Ethiopian recipes and modifies them in vegan form, to be delicious while nutrient-dense. They’re currently open for takeout – order here!
Sky’s Gourmet Tacos – Mid-City
“Mexican with a splash of soul,” is how this 28-year-old non-modern but non-traditional restaurant describes itself. Founder and owner, Barbara “Sky” Burrell, does her own thing and if we do say so ourselves, it’s working tremendously. From her mouth-watering filet mignon nachos to her famous homemade cheesecake that literally melts in your mouth, you will find nothing but satisfaction upon leaving this place. With a second location in Marina Del Rey, Sky’s Gourmet Marketplace, you can now snag their famous tacos and grocery shop as well. But whatever you do, don’t forget to ask for an extra side of Sassy Sauce.
In the heart of a place very near and dear to our hearts (AKA, where our production takes place!) WOODSPOON is a hidden gem that is tucked nicely on the corner of Main and 9th and has been around for over a decade. Simply put: this place feels like home. With its mismatched chairs, laid-back crowd and a menu that is not too intimidating but tastes exquisite, this place checks all the boxes for the perfect casual dinner that will have you leaving with a full belly and a full heart. (Pssst – the Brazilian Chicken Pot Pie is a MUST!)
Talk about SOUL FOOD. This off-the-beaten-path restaurant is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and is exactly where you want to take your in-laws that are in town for brunch after perusing the Los Angeles Flower Mart around the corner. Husband and wife duo, Michael and Kwini Reed, only use honest ingredients and provide a real country-kitchen nostalgia with each dish – including their biscuits which are homemade from scratch each and every morning… Catch us there bright and early!
COFFEE SHOPS
Also in our hometown of Venice lies the sweetest cafe/flower shop combo. Sip your matcha whilst browsing the novelty home goods and stopping to smell the roses. You might come for the coffee, but bet your bottom dollar you will be leaving with an armful of fresh blooms as well!
Super Domestic Coffee – Culver City
Leave this place with coffee in hand… on your new bike! Combining coffee and cycling, this cute Culver spot serves cold brew and cycling accessories! Super Domestic gets its name from a bicyclist that does whatever it takes to help their leader steal the win – which goes hand in hand with the shop’s mission: helping everyone who comes in have the best day possible. Love!
Another favorite in DTLA is a coffee shop and art studio that offers a cozy feeling upon stepping into the doorway. The owner of the coffee shop is simultaneously a mixed media artist that showcases his threaded-button artwork at the coffee shop as his gallery. Walk-in for coffee, walk out with button-studded coasters to set your oat milk latte on!
Not just a coffee shop, but a creative space for entrepreneurs, artists, creatives, and people that want to connect to come, grab a coffee, and do what they do. Founded by two women, Amanda-Jane Thomas and Shanita Nicholas, who met in law school are shared a similar passion for building community – and we are glad they did! SIP & SONDER is currently open for storefront pickup orders.
LIFESTYLE
LOOM is a space of learning and growing that provides modern education to empower everyone. From reproductive health to new parenting, founders Erica Chidi Cohen and Quinn Lundberg made sure there is a class for everyone and build LOOM on community and inclusivity. They are providing online classes for the time being, which you can have a look at here!
Obsessed is an understatement when describing this minimally tomboy-yet-feminine line that is fully produced in Downtown Los Angles. Founders Kristen Gonzalez and Sam Romero built the brand aiming to support women and their individuality. Make an appointment to stop by their studio or scroll their cool-girl Instagram for all the inspo here!
If you didn’t already know, we are floral-obsessed at times, which is why loving owner Whit McClure’s beautiful floral arrangements is even easier! This design studio is focused on creating beautifully crafted flowers and home goods and self-describes the style as whimsical, dynamic, and seasonally-inspired. Get in touch with her here!
Your vintage needs are no longer! New e-commerce shop ran by Julissa Perez not only brings us rare vintage finds from low to high-end designers, but 5% of profits will directly go to the Equal Justice Initiative. Check out her website for vintage goodies or follow her airy desert vibes on Instagram here!
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We hope these recommendations not only bring you a full belly, new clothes or a caffeine high but a happy heart as well, knowing we are supporting each other.
If you have any recommendations that you’d like us to add to this list, we are happy to oblige! Please reach out here.
